Western Bay of Plenty, Te Puna 33 Matahiwi Road

Waterfront sanctuary - feels like a holiday

Some homes simply meet your needs - others elevate the way you live. This exceptional waterfront residence in Te Puna belongs firmly in the latter, offering a lifestyle where life slows to the rhythm of the tides, weekends blur into holidays, and nature becomes part of everyday living.

Privately tucked away off Matahiwi Road, down a secluded driveway framed by established trees, hedging and the neighbouring Waitui Reserve, the home reveals itself gradually. From the moment you arrive, there is an immediate sense of calm, privacy and separation from the outside world - peaceful, yet perfectly connected. Set on 1,211sqm (approx.) the property sits directly beside the calm, shimmering waters of the Te Puna Inlet. This is true esplanade living, where the waterfront is not something you look down to or walk towards, but a natural extension of the front lawn. There are no steep banks or scrambling tracks - simply carry your kayak across the grass and launch straight into the water. Children move effortlessly between land and sea, while adults can wander inside for refreshments without ever losing sight of the action. Living here feels like being permanently on holiday. Mornings begin with birdsong and coffee on the deck, boats resting quietly on their moorings. Days unfold with swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding or floating in the calm tidal waters, with clear, inviting water at high tide just steps from the lawn. Families will love the freedom this setting provides, with the inlet offering a safe, sheltered playground. A public boat ramp just 100 metres away adds further convenience, while your own private boat mooring directly offshore elevates the experience even further. Walk the dinghy from the shed across the lawn, step aboard, and be underway within minutes - whether fishing, exploring Tauranga Harbour, or heading toward Matakana Island, Motiti Island or Mayor Island (Tuhua).

Inside, the two-level home is warm, airy and thoughtfully designed. The ground floor centres around a sleek kitchen with modern appliances and generous workspace, flowing into a spacious dining and cosy living area that opens via bi-fold doors to substantial decks and outdoor living. Also, on the ground-floor is a double bedroom, bathroom, separate toilet, and laundry, making everyday living practical and comfortable. Cork flooring adds warmth and durability, while a whole-house water filtration system enhances wellbeing. Upstairs, two light-filled bedrooms share a generous bathroom, while the master suite features a walk-in wardrobe, additional storage, and access to a private balcony overlooking the inlet with captivating views of moored boats, Plummer's Point Wharf, the Omokoroa Peninsula, and sunsets over the Kaimai Range.

Outdoor living is a standout feature. The covered entertaining area is designed for year-round enjoyment, complete with a built-in pizza oven, stainless bench and sink, mini fridge, louvre roof with rain sensor, drop-down blinds and infrared heating - ideal for everything from long lunches to relaxed evening gatherings. The established grounds balance beauty with function, with mature trees providing shade and privacy, hydrangeas softening the driveway, and productive plantings including avocado, feijoa, citrus and raised vegetable beds. An outdoor chessboard cleverly doubles as boat parking, while a swing, small fish pond and expansive waterfront lawn add charm and versatility. Storage is exceptional, with multiple sheds and a substantial garage complex offering three-car garaging, two carports, a separate studio, home office or sleepout, and ample space for tools, toys and equipment.

Despite its seclusion, the location is superb. Omokoroa, Te Puna and Bethlehem provide easy access to shops, cafes, medical services and supermarkets.

Cherished for more than 28 years, this remarkable waterfront home is ready for its next chapter. True waterfront living with your own private mooring, effortless water access and enduring tranquillity in this location is exceptionally rare. This is not just a home - it is a way of life.